
Located at Xihaimen, about a kilometer north of Feilaishi , lies the Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion, built in 1935. With its expansive views, it offers the perfect spot for admiring the wondrous rock formations of Huangshan. The pavilion is named " Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion " because of the clouds that sometimes billow through the valleys of Xihai, only to dissipate before reaching the pavilion .
Looking closer, you'll see " Fairy Drying Boots " on the left , and " Fairy Drying Shoes " on the right . The left boot and right shoe, facing each other from afar, are truly a masterpiece of nature. There are many other ingenious rocks with names like " Fairy Embroidering Flowers , " " Heavenly Maiden Playing the Lute , " " Heavenly Dog Listening to the Lute , " " Fairy Walking on Stilts, " and " Wu Song Fighting the Tiger . " In front of Paiyun Pavilion, a thousand-foot cliff, shrouded in clouds, offers a perfect spot for appreciating the sea of clouds, sunset glow, and the breathtaking peaks and valleys.
At the Paiyun Pavilion stands a " Broken Stone Pine , " a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its roots have sunk deep into the rock, splitting it into three pieces. The tree stands 6.4 meters tall and is 150 years old.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Tickets are included in the Huangshan Scenic Area ticket
All day
Paiyun Pavilion is a historical and cultural landmark in the Huangshan Scenic Area. It was originally built during the Tang dynasty as a resting place for travelers and has become a symbol of Huangshan's beauty. The pavilion offers some of the best views of the famous mountain peaks and surrounding landscapes.
Paiyun Pavilion is located in the Huangshan Scenic Area, Anhui Province. It can be reached by cable car or by hiking along various trails that lead up to the pavilion. Taxis or private cars can take you to the base of the mountain, from where you'll need to take the cable car or hike to the pavilion.
The pavilion is open year-round, though the best times to visit are early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for sunset, when the light creates dramatic views of the mountain peaks. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather.
The entrance fee to the Huangshan Scenic Area, which includes access to Paiyun Pavilion, typically ranges from 100 to 200 RMB. Tickets can be purchased online through official platforms or at the entrance to the park.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Ideally, book 2-3 days in advance, though tickets can often be purchased on the day of visit if there is availability.
A visit to Paiyun Pavilion typically takes 1-2 hours, including time to hike or take the cable car up and enjoy the views from the pavilion. If you plan to explore nearby trails, allocate additional time.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also available for a more independent exploration.
The recommended route includes taking the cable car to a higher elevation, followed by a short hike to Paiyun Pavilion. After visiting the pavilion, you can explore nearby trails or return via the same route.
There are no night visits or light shows at Paiyun Pavilion, but the early morning sunrise and the evening sunset provide excellent opportunities for special views and photography.
Paiyun Pavilion can be crowded during peak seasons, such as national holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays or early in the morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available near the pavilion. Food options are limited, and it's advisable to bring snacks or water for the hike.
Paiyun Pavilion is accessible via cable car, making it suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, some of the hiking trails may be challenging for young children or those with limited mobility.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted throughout the Huangshan Scenic Area. It is also advisable to carry cash for small purchases in more remote areas.
There are several restaurants and cafes at the base of Huangshan, where you can enjoy local cuisine. At higher elevations, small snack stalls and eateries are available, but dining options are limited near the pavilion itself.
Vegetarian options are typically available at local restaurants in Huangshan, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It is advisable to check with the restaurant in advance.
Several hotels are located near the base of Huangshan, ranging from budget to mid-range options. More luxurious hotels are also available in the nearby Huangshan city.
Souvenir shops are available at the base of the mountain, selling local handicrafts, teas, and art. Popular souvenirs include Huangshan tea, paintings, and wooden carvings.
Huangshan city has a well-connected transportation system, with options to continue your journey by bus, taxi, or private car. The Huangshan train station is a good option for further travel to other parts of China.